Lou Diamond Phillips On Working With Jenni Rivera In New Movie ‘Filly Brown’

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One little independent film that made a big splash during its limited release opening weekend is a star-studded movie called Filly Brown. One of the film’s stars, Lou Diamond Phillips, joined us this morning to tell about the major success this modest film is receiving.

“It’s like the little engine that could. It’s this little film that fortunately is finding its audience, it’s getting out there and it’s getting seen, which is all you can ask for sometimes,” he said.

Filly Brown follows the story of a promising, young hip-hop street poet from Los Angeles named Maria Jose ‘Majo’ Tonorio who faces some tough choices when she’s offered a chance at stardom. The film stars newcomer Gina Rodriguez as ‘Filly Brown’ and Edward James Olmos along with Lou.

Lou notes that the movie also stars late Latin singer Jenni Rivera in what would become her debut and final film after tragically dieing in a plane crash months before the film’s release. It’s thanks to Jenni’s massive fanbase that’s helping this independent film get noticed by the mainstream.

“This is [Jenni’s] one and only film appearance. She was reached out to by Edward James Olmos. She was incredibly brave and courageous to take on this acting role and she just nails it. She’s just wonderful in the film,” said Lou.

In addition to Lou’s new movie, the actor, who most notably starred as Ritchie Valens in the 1987 film La Bamba, has been keeping busy with numerous projects. His latest starring role is in the new A&E drama Longmire as “Henry Standing Bear,” which is gearing up for its new season on May 27th.

“I’ve been very grateful,” said Lou on his latest gigs. “It’s a real blessing.”

Listen to more on Lou Diamond Phillips’ new movie Filly Brown (out now in limited release), plus working with Jenni Rivera and more upcoming projects in our full interview below!